Check Engine Light Due to Restricted EGR System on Toyota Avalon

Problem Description

The EGR System tends to get restricted or blocked with carbon after 100,000- 125,000 miles which will cause an emissions test failure for NOX. If the EGR system is equipped with an EGR temperature sensor it will trigger a Check Engine Light for improper EGR flow. The repair is to clean out the EGR passages and the EGR Temperature sensor. Our technicians tell this repair is pretty straight forward and takes about 1-1.5 hours. It is also wise to verify the EGR system components i.e. the Transducer, EGR Valve and VSV Solenoid at this time.

I had the code read at Autozone, pulled the EGR assembly and did a quick look-over and cleaning of the valve. The CEL did go off but came back on after 200 miles. I will need to do a more thorough cleaning of the system soon.